Artists & Illustrators

Watercolour techniques: the basics

THERE IS SOMETHING MAGICAL about watercolour. This can be seen in the translucency of the medium, the way light can shine through transparent washes, and the subtle mingling of water and paint. It is an alchemy of sorts. I hope any painter will find the techniques and tools in this story invaluable. Remember, watercolour itself is a medium that encourages flexibility and intuitive painting. Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the process. Every painting you create is one more step in your own journey.

TECHNIQUES

WET-IN-WET

This technique involves painting onto a wet surface so that the marks soften, blend and diffuse on the page. This technique is used to create a sky wash: by wetting the area with clean water first, then adding washes of colour onto the wet paper, you can create soft transitions of colour and cloud. This method can also be used for applying different colours for

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Artists & Illustrators

Artists & Illustrators2 min read
There Is No Wrong Way Of Making Art
We should create what we want and however we wish, whether that be loose, tight, realistic or completely abstract, whilst the subject matter can be anything of our choosing. That’s the beauty of our craft. There are no clear and set rules or boundari
Artists & Illustrators2 min read
You Tell Us
I’m a loyal subscriber of this lovely magazine and look forward with excitement each month to receiving the latest copy. I live in St Leonards-On-Sea and work from home as an artist and illustrator. I wanted to share my creative style and medium desc
Artists & Illustrators1 min read
Artists & Illustrators
Editor Niki Browes Art Editor Stuart Selner Assistant Editor Ramsha Vistro Contributors Alvaro Castagnet, Bianca Dumas, Siân Dudley, Amanda Hodges, Brett Hudson, Matthew Haydn Jeanes, Sara Mumtaz, Rosalind Ormiston, Lara Scouller Group Sales Director

Related Books & Audiobooks